Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko was surprisingly recalled for the match against Chelsea at the weekend.
The Ukrainian international had spent a lengthy period of time sidelined with a calf injury and bringing him in for such a big game was a massive call by manager Mikel Arteta.
However, the gamble paid off, with Zinchenko’s capabilities on the ball helping the Gunners to dominate possession. Supporters on Twitter have been praising the summer signing from Manchester City:
Top tier
— Fully Determined (@BjornCooper1) November 6, 2022
That guy is a baller
— Arsene Lom (@LomGunner7) November 7, 2022
It’s facts that Zinchenko is a better (footballer) than Tierney, just more technically gifted, we hold and distribute the ball better with him in
— Cody (@C99Cody1) November 6, 2022
Top class
— Stay-ready🙂😎🤑 (@Snipebilltt) November 7, 2022
He plays like an extra man in our midfield.
— Lawrence Obi (@LawrenceObi19) November 7, 2022
He holds the ball to reset the game and he seems everywhere
— Cee J27 (@J27Cee) November 6, 2022
If he’s fit he starts
He knows that inverted role inside out
Its an essential part of the system— Martin (@Swiller1988) November 6, 2022
Even if he comes from injuries he always superb. COYG
— Kisonyo jr (@KisonyoJ) November 7, 2022
The fact that Arteta decided to bring Zinchenko back into the team so soon despite being short of match fitness demonstrates how highly the Arsenal boss rates the player.
The 25-year-old clearly lacked a bit of sharpness but he was always available as a passing option for his teammates and, as he is already comfortable playing in midfield, it means his distribution is usually on point. It was a great return to the starting eleven.